Meet Candice
Candice C. Cusic is an internationally award-winning Chicago pet photographer and animal communicator with over 40 years of experience capturing the deep, unspoken bond between pets and their people.
Before founding her Chicago pet photography studio, Candice was a Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist at the Chicago Tribune, where she honed her ability to tell powerful, authentic stories through photography. Today, she brings that same storytelling approach to Moment-Driven Photography™—a signature style that captures real emotion, connection, and personality in every pet portrait.
Named Best Pet Photographer in Chicago, Candice’s work goes beyond just creating stunning portraits. She believes pets are more than companions—they are family, teachers, and guides.
Through her unique ability to blend pet photography and animal communication, Candice ensures that every session honors the love, spirit, and presence of each pet, creating timeless dog and cat portraits that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Do you have two dogs? 🐶🐶
Why not celebrate them with artwork that reflects just how precious they are to you?
Our Chicago pet photography studio specializes in creating custom portraits that honor the deep bond you share—with both your dogs and your family.
Because these aren’t just pets.
They’re your heart, your home, and your joy.
Let’s turn that love into timeless artwork you’ll treasure forever.
#ChicagoPetPhotographer #PetPhotographyChicago #DogPortraits #DogsAreFamily #CustomPetArtwork #PetAndFamilyPhotography #DoubleTheLove #PetPortraitsChicago #MomentDrivenPhotography
Yes. He knew.
And if you`re still wondering, now is the time to ask.
As a professional animal communicator in Chicago, I help people reconnect with their pets—living or passed—and receive the messages they’re ready to share.
✨ Book your session: https://cusicphoto.com/animal-communicator
#animalcommunication #petgriefsupport #cusicphoto
“They’re my boys too… they don’t belong to everyone.” 🐾
That’s what sweet Maggie shared during her animal communication session with her dads, @maggieandherdads.
Our pets have emotions, preferences, and wisdom they’re just waiting to share—if we take the time to listen.
As a professional animal communicator based in Chicago, I help pet parents connect more deeply with their animals through intuitive, heart-centered communication.
🗓️ In-person or remote sessions available.
💬 Your pet has something to say—are you ready to hear it?
🔗 Book at www.cusicphoto.com
#AnimalCommunication #ChicagoAnimalCommunicator #PetCommunication #TalkingWithPets #PetLove #GoldenRetrieverLove #PetHealing #CandiceCusic #AnimalIntuition #ChicagoPetServices #PetPsychic #MaggieAndHerDads @maggieandherdads
I started photographing when I was 4 years old.📷
Being the only professional pet photographer and animal communicator means everything to me. It allows me to help people see, feel, and understand their pets in a deeper, more meaningful way. We’re a #smallbusiness built on love, connection, and capturing the moments that matter most.
✨🐾Book your session today, and let’s create something beautiful together
#smallbusinessday #smallbusinesssaturday #petphotographer #chicagophotographer
Yes. I can.
As a professional animal communicator in Chicago, I help pet parents reconnect with animals who have passed.
If you’ve been searching for a sign or wondering if it’s possible to hear from your pet again—this is your invitation to listen.
✨ Book your animal communication session:
https://cusicphoto.com/animal-communicator
#animalcommunication #petgriefsupport #communicatewithpets #chicagoanimalcommunicator #cusicphoto #talktopets #petintuitive
Why do we love photographing black dogs on black backgrounds? 🖤🐾
Because their fur becomes pure velvet under the right light. Capturing the rich texture and soulful expressions of black-coated dogs takes precision—and a professional eye.
At our Chicago pet photography studio, we specialize in lighting and posing that reveals the depth and beauty often missed in darker-coated pets. It’s a refined, timeless look—and one that requires technical expertise to do right.
If you have a black dog, let’s create artwork as stunning and unique as they are.
#BlackDogPhotography #ChicagoPetPhotographer #PetPhotographyStudio #ProfessionalPetPhotographer #DogPortraitsChicago #PetPhotoshoot #BlackOnBlackPetPortraits #VelvetFurPhotos #MomentDrivenPhotography
What makes us different? We take the time your dog needs. 🐶✨
When Vivienne came to our studio, we didn’t rush. We gave her the space to explore, settle in, and truly shine—and that’s when the magic happened. 💫
What sets us apart? We invite every client to bring their pet to our Chicago studio for a pre-session tour—because comfort leads to confidence in front of the camera.
🐾 Nervous rescue dog?
🐾 Senior pup with mobility needs?
🐾 High-energy goofball who needs time to adjust?
We’ve got you.
As Chicago’s only professional pet and family photographer who offers this kind of pre-session experience, I make sure every pet feels safe, seen, and celebrated.
#ChicagoPetPhotographer #DogPhotographyChicago #PetAndFamilyPhotography #PetPhotoshoot #DogPortraits #PetPhotographyStudio #PetLoversChicago #MomentDrivenPhotography
I’ve been a vegetarian since I was 18—because I’ve always felt a deep connection to animals.
As a professional pet and family photographer, I’ve spent years capturing the love we share with them.
And now, as an animal communicator, I help you hear what your pet wants you to know—whether they’re still with you or have passed.
When I met my first goat, I was so thrilled I had to take a selfie. That joy? That connection? It’s exactly why I do this work.
If you’ve ever wished you could better understand your pet’s emotions—or simply want to feel closer to them—I’d be honored to help.
✨ Book your session: https://cusicphoto.com/animal-communicator
#animalcommunication #petgriefsupport #chicagoanimalcommunicator #petphotographer #cusicphoto #goatmoment
Located in downtown Chicago.
1821 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, IL 60622
By appointment only
info@cusicphoto.com
Available for travel internationally, for pets & family photography, and education for photographers. Send us a note for details or reach us by phone at 312-248-2939.
© 2025 Chicago family and pet photographer, Candice C. Cusic|ProPhoto Photography Blog